The influence of whey protein on free-living glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes
People with type 2 diabetes often struggle to release enough insulin after eating carbohydrates, but protein can still trigger a healthy insulin release. Previous research showed that large protein drinks help lower post-meal blood sugar spikes, but these drinks were too big to fit easily into everyday life. This study tests whether a small, realistic drink (100ml) of whey protein taken 10 minutes before meals works just as well at home. Adults aged 30 to 68 with stable type 2 diabetes will try two different drinks across five weeks. Over the study, volunteers wear a continuous glucose monitor to track their sugar levels 24 hours a day and visit the hospital in Newcastle for tests. The findings could lead to simple, practical food-based ways to support everyday diabetes care without needing extra tablets.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Type 2 diabetes happens when the body cannot make enough insulin, or when the insulin it does make does not work properly. When you eat foods containing carbohydrates—like bread, pasta, or fruit—your blood sugar naturally rises. In people with type 2 diabetes, the body struggles to release insulin to bring these sugar levels down. Interestingly, research shows that while the body struggles to respond to carbs, eating protein can still trigger a good insulin release.
Past studies found that drinking a large whey protein shake before eating could stop blood sugar from spiking. However, these shakes were very filling and had to be drunk half an hour before eating, which is not how most people eat at home. Researchers at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals want to find out if a much smaller drink—just 100ml, taken 10 minutes before eating—can offer the same benefits in real life.
By taking part, volunteers help researchers understand whether a simple dietary tweak can make daily diabetes management easier. If successful, this research could pave the way for practical, food-based options that people can use alongside their usual lifestyle choices or tablets to keep their blood sugar steady.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether a small, convenient whey protein shot before meals helps control blood sugar.
- Aimed at adults aged 30 to 68 with type 2 diabetes managed by diet or tablets.
- Involves wearing a 24-hour blood sugar monitor and drinking small test drinks at home.
- Requires six hospital visits in Newcastle over a five-week period, with taxis provided.
- Completely voluntary, with no need to change your usual prescribed diabetes tablets.
Who may be eligible?
This trial is designed for adults aged 30 to 68 who have lived with type 2 diabetes for at least one year. Your blood sugar control needs to be relatively stable, with an HbA1c level below 9.5% (80 mmol/mol). You can join if your diabetes is managed through diet and exercise alone or with everyday diabetes tablets, as long as your medication has not changed in the last three months. You should also have a steady weight, eat breakfast regularly, and keep a regular sleep routine.
You cannot take part if you take insulin injections or newer injectable diabetes medicines called incretin mimetics. The trial is also not suitable for people with food allergies or intolerances, gut issues, a history of serious heart problems, or kidney or liver disease in the past year.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am between 30 and 68 years of age.
- I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at least 12 months ago.
- I manage my diabetes with diet or stable tablets (not insulin injections).
- My weight has remained steady over the last month.
- I regularly eat breakfast and keep normal daily sleep hours.
- I have no known dairy allergies, food intolerances, or major gut problems.
What does participation involve?
Taking part lasts around five weeks and involves six visits to the Clinical Research Facility at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle upon Tyne. Taxis are arranged to take you to and from the hospital for morning visits.
During the study, you will have two 7-day home testing periods. In each period, you will drink a small 100ml whey protein drink 10 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You will test two different drinks, with a two-week break in between. You will also wear a discreet sensor called a continuous glucose monitor on your skin to track your sugar levels day and night.
Across the five weeks, you will attend hospital visits where a small plastic tube (cannula) is placed in your arm to take blood samples over four hours after a test breakfast and an 'all-you-can-eat' lunch. Researchers will also monitor your appetite, daily diet, and physical activity, followed by a brief chat about your experience.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyNewcastle upon Tyne, England
Common questions
What is whey protein?
Whey is a natural protein that comes from milk during the cheese-making process. It is easily digested and commonly used in food and nutrition drinks.
Do I have to stop taking my regular diabetes medication?
No. You will continue taking your usual oral diabetes medicines, as long as your prescription has been steady for at least three months.
Will travel costs be covered?
Yes, pre-arranged taxis will be provided to take you to the Newcastle hospital for your morning testing visits.
Will the protein drink replace my meals?
No. The drink is very small (100ml) and is designed to be taken just 10 minutes before your regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Is the continuous glucose monitor painful?
The sensor is applied to the skin using a small applicator. Most people feel only a mild pinch, and it is water-resistant so you can shower as normal.
How to find out more
Daniel West
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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